Story perspectives

Benin Thwarts Coup Attempt Ahead of April Elections

12/7/2025

Summary

Story summary

Benin's government said it thwarted a coup on December 7, 2025, led by a faction of soldiers calling themselves Military Committee for Refoundation.
Interior Minister Alassane Seidou of Benin confirmed loyalists regained control after the soldiers briefly seized state television.
Soldiers claimed to dissolve the government and suspend the constitution amid tensions ahead of April 2026 election.
There were 14 arrests linked to the coup.
Gunfire was reported in Cotonou.

History

Historical Context

Benin's political landscape has been marked by instability since its first coup in 1963, when President Hubert Maga was overthrown by Christophe Soglo amid economic turmoil. Although Benin has been recognized as a stable democracy since its 1991 multiparty elections, recent coup attempts, including one in December 2025 against President Patrice Talon, reflect ongoing military influence and threaten democratic governance.

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Story summary

Benin's government said it thwarted a coup on December 7, 2025, led by a faction of soldiers calling themselves Military Committee for Refoundation.
Interior Minister Alassane Seidou of Benin confirmed loyalists regained control after the soldiers briefly seized state television.
Soldiers claimed to dissolve the government and suspend the constitution amid tensions ahead of April 2026 election.
There were 14 arrests linked to the coup.
Gunfire was reported in Cotonou.

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